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Health column - Geraint Williams, Consultant Ophthalmologist

I’m a new doctor at the trust, having joined the eye department as a consultant ophthalmologist this month.

The NHS nationally is under the spotlight, and since Worcestershire hospitals are hitting the headlines regularly I thought I would share my story about why I am joining the trust now.

The reality is that there are many areas of excellent practice in Worcestershire. Ophthalmology is an important example, because the most common procedure performed in the NHS is the cataract operation - with 250,000 carried out each year.

I trained in the two biggest teaching hospitals in the UK and completed my fellowship in Singapore at the world renowned eye centre, SNEC. In Singapore I was able to learn the latest techniques, like laser surgery for cataracts.

When I noticed the consultant opening in Worcester, I remembered attending an event where the clinical director of ophthalmology, Tarun Sharma, was speaking. From his presentation I knew that this department was forward thinking and I jumped at the chance to apply.

I flew over from Singapore for my interview, and was impressed. The team here is dedicated to providing an excellent cataract and corneal service for patients. They are passionate about research, efficiency and patient care. The department has won awards for its glaucoma support programme and achieved national recognition for its cataract treatment. That sold it to me as a place to work, and I was excited to be offered the position.

Part of my job as a new consultant is to bring fresh ideas, and I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge of new surgical techniques, laser equipment and scanning, as well as using my links with the University of Birmingham to contribute to the department’s clinical research. I am also aware that we have patients waiting for corneal transplantation and we will be working hard to see and treat patients as soon as possible.

It’s not just about ensuring we run a modern service though. Sight impairment impacts a patient’s independence, and this team takes that seriously. We are committed to ensuring that patients have a positive experience.

So I think this is an exciting time to join trust, and I am looking forward to meeting the challenges ahead.

4ward is our Trustwide culture change programme which is helping us build a more positive, supportive workplace for the benefit of our patients and colleagues. At its heart are our four 4ward Behaviours.